DESPITE numerous initiatives, poverty continues to impede access to quality education,perpetuating a cycle of illiteracy that restricts individual and national development, causing harm to a nation by reducing economic growth, innovation and productivity due to an unskilled workforce. It also weakens governance, increases inequality, and hampers overall progress.

In Pakistan, millions of children remain deprived of their fundamental right to education due to financial hardships.

Families living in poverty often prioritise immediate survival over education, pushing children into labour. Though illegal, child labour remains a fact of life.

The economic disparity is quite evident.

There are approximately 62 per cent public schools and 38pc private schools, as private schools thrive due tobetterresources, while public institutions suffer from chronic underfunding. Massive reforms, including increased funding and community-driven initiatives, are key to ensuring equal access to education.

A country`s success is rooted in the education of its people. But this progress cannot be made until education is accessible to all. No one should be discriminated against on any ground. As responsible citizens, we must advocate for policies that prioritise education accessible to all regardless of socioeconomic status.

Empowering our youth through education is an investment in the future of both the individual and the nation.

Education is the key to driving economic growth and achieving national progress.

Zobia Ali Karachi